Supplements – Page 5 – The Minded Athlete

When considering dopamine supplements, first ask yourself these questions: Are you having a hard time concentrating? Do you feel physically and mentally tired? Are you unmotivated and disinterested? You may be suffering from dopamine deficiency. Studies have shown that a decrease in dopamine levels affects your mood. It interferes with mental performance, cognitive function, and motor control. Dopamine, also known as the motivation molecule, is a neurotransmitter -- or a chemical messenger that affects levels in the brain. It is a chemical released by nerve cells to nerve cells. It manifests through memory, behavior, attention, learning, and even movement. Worry not, there are dopamine supplements to help you out. Please remember, supplements, despite being natural to your body, have different effects on different people. Always consult with your own medical professional before trying any new supplement, even dopamine. This article is not to be considered medical advice. What is a Dopamine Supplement? The brain itself produces dopamine, but dopamine levels can increase with supplements. You may hear that a way to increase dopamine naturally is through caffeine i.e., coffee and green tea. However, the side effect is that you are only motivated for a short time because it is not dopamine that increased but the receptors of dopamine. There are, however, dopamine supplements that boost levels of dopamine for better memory, improved behavior, undivided attention and quick learning, and proper movement. Dopamine supplements are products intended to boost dopamine in your brain. They may take the forms of powder or extract, pill or capsules. We provided you here a list of dopamine supplements not made synthetically but extracted from food sources. That means that the products listed below are mostly GMO-free and vegan or vegetarian-diet safe. Some products do not even contain allergens such as wheat, gluten, soybeans, dairy, egg, fish/shellfish, or peanuts/tree nuts. Dopamine supplements do not increase the quantity of dopamine itself. It is an added element that increases the production of dopamine, as directed by the supplement. Dopamine supplements, intend to boost dopamine levels and help regulate dopamine in the body to improve your mood. Mood varies on how dopamine in the brain transmits to other nerve cells to carry out their function. Therefore, being distracted, feeling blue, tired and unmotivated may be blamed to low dopamine levels. That is why dopamine supplements contain different ingredients such as mucuna pruriens, L-dopa, L-tyrosine, and L-theanine, among others. Price Range of Dopamine Supplements Dopamine supplements ranges from $9 to $60. Factors affecting the prices are the contents or ingredients of the supplement such that some come from one herb alone as opposed to several herbs. Another factor is the demand and supply of the ingredient needed to make the supplement. Lastly, consideration for pricing may be the quantity of the supplement. How We Reviewed We conducted a thorough research of dopamine supplements and arrived into our best ten dopamine supplements. We considered the products that provide value for money -- not by how cheap they are but their worth considering their effectiveness and efficiency. Safety is another measure we looked at. As we include these dopamine supplements in our diet, it must be guaranteed safe and slim to no side-effects. We also looked into the ingredient list looking at its contents whether they contain allergens or not, whether they are vegan/vegetarian-diet friendly or not and if they are GMO-free. We considered availability and consumption determining how widely used the product is. It also determines freshness and newness of the products available in the market. Best 10 Dopamine Supplements You Should Consider Trying As advocates of a happy mood, productivity, and overall brain health, we bring you the best-rated dopamine supplements. We give you a selection of inexpensive and high-end supplements, supplements in the form of extract, pills, and capsules, and, diet and allergen friendly. Let us boost your dopamine levels! Let us treat or prevent you from feeling distracted, tired and unmotivated. Note that the products listed are in no particular order. 1. Lost Empire Herbs Mucuna Pruriens Extract Mucuna Pruriens (also known as velvet bean) is a natural source of L-Dopa, which is an amino acid that converts to dopamine. Lost Empire Herbs’ Mucuna Pruriens contains 15.76 percent of L-Dopa making it one of the best dopamine supplements. Primarily, people took this herb for two things -- as a sexual tonic and for relief from Parkinson’s disease. Researchers further study L-Dopa and link it to increasing the production of dораmіnе in the body. It is nootropic which means it improves cognitive function аnd іs vіtаl fоr орtіmаl brаіn funсtіоn. The target of this supplement are the executive functions of the brain, memory, and motivation. It also wоrks wіth thе nеrvоus sуstеm; the reason for it, to relieve suffering for people who have Parkinson's disease. Lost Empire Herbs’ Mucuna Pruriens is certified organic and a full-spectrum extract which means that it contains natural active components of the herb. It is also gluten-free and vegan; hence, there are no genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and preservatives. It is Good Manufacturing Practice certified by a third party. Furthermore, there are no reported side effects and no approved therapeutic claims due to thе very low tохісіtу оf thіs hеrb. This supplement has an Amazon rating of 4.0 out of 5-stars. It costs between $20 to $30. 2. Now L-Tyrosine Now L-Tyrosine is a dopamine supplement that contains 500mg of L-Tyrosine. It is also gluten-free and processed to avoid allergens such as wheat, gluten, soy, milk, egg, fish, shellfish or tree nut ingredients. L-Tyrosine, an indispensable amino acid, is required for the production of the neurotransmitters like dopamine, adrenaline, noradrenaline, and melanin. This increases dopamine levels , giving you a positive mood and mental alertness. Popularly used to increase alertness and combat tiredness, L-Tyrosine is commonly medicated to treat anxiety and depression. L-Tyrosine may also help in restoring adrenal, thyroid and pituitary function. This supplement prevents Parkinson's Disease by aiding the brain in releasing more dopamine. Other positive effects include controlling metabolic rate, skin health, and growth rate. This supplement has an Amazon rating of 4.2 out of 5-stars. It costs between $5 to $20. 3. Natural Stacks Dopamine Brain Food Natural Stacks Dopamine Brain Food is also a nootropic stack which supports dopamine and aims for optimal mental performance. Mental performance includes confidence, motivation, attention, learning and, movement and balance. It is also made with natural ingredients that reduce brain fog, increases clear thinking and cognitive function. It also increases motor function. Unlike the others, this dopamine supplement already has L-Tyrosine, L-Phenylalanine, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, Folate, Vitamin C, and Trimethylglycine. The contents of this supplement contribute to the overall effect of a positive mood, alertness, and energy. To start with, L-Tyrosine produces neurotransmitters like dopamine to fight fatigue; in effect, Physical Functioning, General Health, Social Functioning, Role Functioning, and Mental Health. L-Phenylalanine associates with mental alertness and arousal. Vitamin B6, an amino acid that converts to dopamine, directly affects the immune function and gene expression, and brain glucose regulation. It maintains normal conditions of the body, and normal cognition through the aging process. Vitamin B12 maintains a healthy nervous system. Folate contributes to the normal, healthy functioning of our brains where it ensures DNA stability, gene expression, and neuronal differentiation. Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant that reduces stress and helps remove metabolic waste keeping the brain cells function normally. Lastly, Trimethylglycine, also known as Betaine, is a natural stamina-enhancer that increases muscle size, endurance, and body composition. This supplement has an Amazon rating of 3.3 out of 5-stars. Amazon has indicated a 30 Day 100 percent satisfaction guarantee or get a full refund with this product. It costs between $30 to $50. 4. SuperiorLabs L-Theanine SuperiorLabs L-Theanine Supplements contain 250mg pure active L-Theanine. L-Theanine contains the amino acids: L-Glutamine and L-glutamic acid. It induces relaxation without inducing drowsiness, maintains mental clarity, supports cardiovascular function and relieves you of mental and physical stress. SuperiorLabs L-Theanine is free of magnesium stearate, silicon dioxide, titanium dioxide, preservatives or other potentially harmful artificial ingredients of any kind. It is free of genetically modified organisms and is Good Manufacturing Practice certified by a third party. It's also a vegetarian supplement. This supplement has an Amazon rating of 4.6 stars. SuperiorLabs and Amazon assure satisfaction. If not satisfied with the benefits, results, or are unsatisfied with the product in any other way, consumers may contact SuperiorLabs, and they will gladly refund your money in 48 hours or less. It costs between $20 to $50. 5. Pure Encapsulations DopaPlus Pure Encapsulations DopaPlus provides neurotransmitter precursors to help balance dopamine function in the brain for emotional wellness making you stress-free and to enhance daily mental function and sharpness. DopaPlus includes L-Tyrosine, Vitamin B6, Zinc, Mucuna Pruriens, Rhodiola and Folate (Metafolin) cofactor complex. Some medications, inadequate diets, and toxic environmental exposures deplete the nutrients mentioned above in individuals. They enhance neurotransmitter function and support emotional wellness when nutrients are gone. The contents of this dopamine supplement give you the overall support for cognitive function and mental tasks. This product supports healthy theta wave activity in the brain and protects neuronal health and function. It also promotes a positive mood. This product is gluten-free, GMO-free and vegan. This supplement has an Amazon rating of 3.5 out of 5-stars. It costs between $40 to $70. 6. The Genius Brand Genius Joy Multi-Benefit Life Hack Supplement The Genius Brand Genius Joy Multi-Benefit Life Hack Supplement calls it a supplement-for-all nootropic serotonin booster. Genius Joy describes its supplement as a cheat code for finding peace in oneself releasing stress. It targets its consumers to be back to focus, have energy and healthy cognition. Furthermore, it replaces antidepressants and clear brain fog with a more natural approach as this product is vegetarian. It's a serotonin mood booster that relieves oneself of anxiety and gives a daily brain boost. The supplement also includes vitamins B12 and D, coupled with pure L-Theanine to reduce mental and physical stress while stabilizing mood. This one-supplement-for-all includes a handful of ingredients for supporting positive mood and relieving anxiety such as S-Adenosylmethionine, 5-HTP, SAM-e, Rhodiola, Ginseng, and B-vitamins. A holistic approach indeed! This supplement has an Amazon rating of 4.5 out of 5-stars. It costs between $60 to $90. 7. Designs for Health DopaBoost Designs for Health DopaBoost's primary ingredient is Mucuna Pruriens‚ an Ayurvedic herb which naturally contains L-Dopa as previously mentioned. L-Dopa stays in the bloodstream and crosses the blood-brain barrier. Additional ingredients of the formulation include EGCG (Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate)‚ N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine‚ Quercetin and Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate Vitamin B6‚ all selected for their synergistic roles in helping to support the body’s natural production and regulation of dopamine. The dopamine-boosting effects of Mucuna Pruriens and L-Dopa in this dopamine supplement include relief against nervous disorders like Parkinson’s Disease, maintaining healthy blood pressure, and management of male infertility. Its antioxidants manage stress through neuroprotective effects. Lastly, it contains antidepressants that promote a positive mood. Other ingredients such as EGCG, N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine‚ Quercetin, and Vitamin B6 make up together as cofactors necessary to convert to dopamine. EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate, or green tea extract) combats cancerous properties and reduces vascular complications in diabetic patients. It also provides a neuroprotective effect against oxidative damage and degeneration. Through N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine, acetylation helps to stabilize tyrosine an amino acid to convert dopamine. Quercetin is an antioxidant that exhibits anti-inflammatory and anti-allergy effects. Research suggests this ingredient's neuroprotective compound as well. Lastly, P5P is the metabolically-active form of vitamin B6 necessary to convert L-DOPA to dopamine. This supplement has an Amazon rating of 4.2 out of 5-stars. It costs between $30 to $40. 8. Now Rhodiola Now Rhodiola contains 3 percent Standardized Extract of Rhodiola. It is a dietary supplement that helps the body to adapt to stress. Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea) is indigenous to the Arctic and Alpine regions of Europe, Asia, and America. Many cultures, including the Ancient Greeks, used this as tonic. Rhodiola, also known as an “adaptogen,” refers to any agent possessing the ability to support the body’s natural capacity to adapt to life’s changing conditions. Just like the others, this dopamine supplement eliminates, if not, reduces fatigue and depression. It also energizes you and enhances your work performance. This product prevents physical and psychological stress. Like other dopamine supplements, Rhodiola also stabilizes the nervous system, being helpful to Parkinson's patients. This product is also non-GMO, GMP quality-assured and vegetarian. This supplement has an Amazon rating of 4.0 out of 5-stars. It costs between $10 to $30. 9. Jarrow Formulas Citicoline (CDP Choline) Jarrow Formulas Citicoline (CDP Choline) provides the basic neural building blocks. Citicoline is a molecule that consists of cytidine and choline. Its consumption promotes brain metabolism. That affects memory and other brain activity. Citicoline improves conversion of necessary neurotransmitters to dopamine that stabilizes circulation to promote a sound memory and mental clarity. As it crosses through the brain and central nervous system, citicoline reactivates brain levels. That is why this supplement specializes in the areas of verbal memory, object recognition, recall, and overall cognitive performance. Another feature of citicoline is its capability to prevent the buildup of different toxins in the brain. This dopamine supplement contains no wheat, gluten, soybeans, dairy, egg, fish/shellfish, or peanuts/tree nuts. This supplement has an Amazon rating of 4.2 out of 5-stars. It costs between $10 to $40. 10. Doctor's Best Double-Strength SAM-e Doctor's Best Double-Strength SAM-e (S-Adenosyl Methionine), a biological compound in the cells of the body, is essential for the healthy metabolism of the major brain transmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. It promotes healthy mood which is why so many people suffering from anxiety and depression use it. Eighteen (18) controlled human trials published over 40 years proves the effectiveness of SAM-e. This Non-GMO, gluten-free, soy-free and vegetarian product helps both mood and joints wellness. SAM-e enhances mood and promotes cognitive health and promotes joint comfort and mobility while supporting liver health and detoxification. This supplement also promotes good sleep. While the other products focus more on the mental functions, this product focuses more on joint comfort as SAM-e comes from the amino acid methionine, one of the most important methyl donors in the central nervous system. This supplement has an Amazon rating of 3.9 out of 5-stars. It costs between $30 to $50. Dopamine Supplements for You Among the dopamine supplements listed above, SuperiorLabs' L-Theanine ranks as one of the bests. Using the metrics value for money, safety, dietary restrictions, availability, and consumption, this supplement topped our best ten for first-timers. A fairly priced product, costing between $20 to $50, first-timers can rely on this supplement’s overall safety and effectivity. This dopamine supplement is a value for money since it is effective for relieving you of stress and targets both mental and cardiovascular conditions. It is the safest among the products because its main purpose is to relax the user. The ingredients of this supplement are all natural, vegetarian and GMO-free. Designs for Health DopaBoost also topped the list and is one of the best. However, it is better for those who have already tried dietary supplements. This supplement topped our list because you get the most out of your cash out. Its primary ingredient may also be Mucuna Pruriens like Lost Empire Herbs,’ but its other ingredients makes it more effective as they are necessary for the production and regulation of dopamine. The product prides itself as fairly priced costing between $30 to $40. It is also vegetarian and natural. There are just a lot of ingredients to activate dopamine so it is not recommended for first-timers as it might be overwhelming to a first-timers body. Out of all these best 10, which one for you is a must-try? Tell us what you think in the comments.